Cheapest Public Administration Colleges in Missouri

University of Missouri-St Louis delivers Missouri's most affordable Public Administration program at just $12,323 net cost, nearly $7,000 less than the next cheapest option. This public university maintains a 56.90% graduation rate while keeping costs remarkably low for students entering Missouri's growing government sector. With major state employers like BJC HealthCare and defense contractors creating steady demand for public administration professionals, Missouri's 13 programs span from $12,323 to $25,477 annually. The state's mix includes both flagship universities and smaller colleges, though public institutions clearly dominate the affordable end of the spectrum.

Programs

$12,323 – $25,477

Net Price Range

48.2%

Avg. Graduation Rate

13 Public Administration Programs

Program rankings
#	School	Net Price	In-State Tuition	Graduation Rate	Acceptance Rate
1	University of Missouri-St Louis Saint Louis, Missouri	$12,323	$13,440	56.9%	51.1%
2	Lincoln University Jefferson City, Missouri	$12,484	$9,290	22.1%
3	Drury University-College of Continuing Professional Studies Springfield, Missouri	$13,375	$8,044	32.1%
4	Central Methodist University-College of Graduate and Extended Studies Fayette, Missouri	$14,774	$6,960		100.0%
5	Northwest Missouri State University Maryville, Missouri	$14,824	$10,181	57.5%	85.6%
6	Park University Parkville, Missouri	$15,529	$16,400	30.0%
7	Missouri Valley College Marshall, Missouri	$17,945	$23,000	24.5%	61.2%
8	Lindenwood University Saint Charles, Missouri	$18,516	$21,100	50.3%	74.0%
9	Evangel University Springfield, Missouri	$18,705	$27,192	64.8%	67.9%
10	University of Missouri-Columbia Columbia, Missouri	$19,889	$14,130	76.2%	79.1%
11	Drury University Springfield, Missouri	$21,523	$35,235	66.0%	63.4%
12	Columbia College Columbia, Missouri	$24,051	$24,326	45.7%
13	Central Methodist University-College of Liberal Arts and Sciences Fayette, Missouri	$25,477	$27,140	52.5%	97.9%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes University of Missouri-St Louis so much cheaper than other options?

UMSL's $12,323 net cost reflects its public funding and location in an urban area with lower overhead costs. The university also offers substantial financial aid that brings costs well below the $13,440 sticker price.

How do graduation rates compare across Missouri's cheapest programs?

The three most affordable schools show vastly different outcomes, with UMSL at 56.90%, Lincoln University at just 22.10%, and Drury's continuing education program at 32.10%. Higher costs don't always guarantee better completion rates in this field.

Is there a significant cost difference between public and private schools?

Public schools dominate the affordable tier, with UMSL, Lincoln University, and Northwest Missouri State all under $15,000. Private options like Park University and Missouri Valley College typically cost $15,000-$18,000 annually.

Where do Missouri Public Administration graduates typically find employment?

Missouri's government sector, healthcare systems like BJC HealthCare, and defense contractors provide steady career paths. The state capital in Jefferson City also creates opportunities in state government roles.

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Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.